Step by step relay: How it works and how to connect it correctly?

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• What is a relay?
• How to connect a step by step relay
• How to regularly use polyphosphate salts for the boiler
• Conclusion

A relay is a device that is designed to turn an electrical circuit or appliance on and off via an electrical or magnetic signal. Relays are often used to connect a dimmable LED lamp to an electrical switch. While it's tricky at first, learning how to wire a relay correctly can help save energy and money in the long run while still providing a reliable connection. In this article we will go through step by step how relays work and how to correctly connect a dimmable LED lamp.

What is a relay?

A relay is an electrical component that couples an external control signal to a related output signal. This device, also known as an auxiliary switch, has many applications. Relays are commonly used in motor control, power industry, telegraphy, and is also used in the switching process of electronic devices. Relays can pass electric current up to a few amperes, so they can be used to control devices such as LED lamps or motors. Furthermore, the relays can also be used to manage AC or DC voltages.

How to connect a step by step relay

Correctly connecting a relay requires some information necessary for its use, for example:

• Measurement of the current and voltage of the device to be controlled
• Number of device contacts
• Connection form for the LED lamp

It is important to note that relays are often molded with 5 contacts, only 4 of which are connectors. Most of the devices to be controlled need 3 contacts for power and 1 contact for an output. To ensure a correct connection, the connectors must be connected in the right way.

Connecting the Connectors to the Device

The initial connection of the relay is done by the device, such as the dimmable LED lamp. You need 3 contacts:

• COM: Common connector. It corresponds to connector No. 4 on your dimmable LED lamp
• NC: Normally Closed Connector. It corresponds to connector No. 1 on your dimmable LED lamp
• NO: Normally Open connector. It corresponds to connector No. 2 on your dimmable LED lamp

Energizing these contacts correctly will allow the relay to open and close properly and send current up to the device. Once connected, apply power and verify that the opening and closing operations take place. This step will verify that the relay is installed correctly.

Connecting the Connectors to the Switch

Once connected to the device it is necessary to switch to the contacts belonging to the switch, maximum precision is required. The contacts you need to connect to are:

• COM: Common connector. Corresponds to the "COM" contacts of the switch
• NO: Normally open connector. Corresponds to the "NO" contact of the switch

Connect the common connector to the "COM" contact of the switch and the normal open one to the "NO" contact, so that the signal from the switch activates the relay. After connecting, close the switch and check if the connection works properly.

How to Test a Relay?

To check if a relay works correctly, check its behavior when the "COM" and "NC" contacts are reversed. If the relay opens and closes correctly, the device will be functional.

Conclusion

Connecting a relay to your dimmable LED lamp is not as difficult as it seems, following this guide carefully you will have a safe and functioning connection. When carrying out wiring work, always follow precautions to prevent the risk of electrocution. Although it is necessary to be careful of the voltages and currents that are nearby, by following this guide you will be able to do quality work in a short time.